Theme D: Religion, peace and conflict (AQA GCSE Religious Studies A): Revision Notes
Religion and peacemaking
Introduction to Muslim attitudes towards peace
Muslims understand the importance of working towards peace in today's world. When conflicts and wars occur, they can impact people in various ways, and Muslims believe they have a responsibility to help those who are suffering. This commitment to peacemaking stems from fundamental Islamic teachings and values.
The Islamic approach to peacemaking is comprehensive, encompassing both individual responsibility and community action, rooted in the core principles of the faith.
Why Muslims work for peace
There are several key reasons why Muslims feel compelled to work towards creating and maintaining peace:
Following Islamic teachings
Muslims work for peace because they want to follow the core teachings of Islam, which emphasise peace and cooperation rather than conflict. The religion itself promotes harmony between people and communities.
Applying Quranic guidance
The Qur'an contains numerous passages about peace, and Muslims believe they should put these teachings into practice by supporting charitable causes and helping others in need.
Living according to Allah's intentions
Muslims see peacemaking as part of living the way Allah intended, working to bring justice and fairness to the world rather than allowing suffering to continue.
Caring for others globally
There is a duty outlined by Muhammad for Muslims to care for other people around the world, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Strengthening the ummah
Working for peace helps to support and strengthen the ummah (the global community of Muslims), creating unity and cooperation.
The concept of ummah extends beyond geographical boundaries, creating a sense of global responsibility among Muslims to work for peace and justice worldwide.
Examples of Muslim peacemakers
Malala Yousafzai (born 1997)
Real-World Example: Malala Yousafzai's Advocacy
Malala is a Pakistani Muslim who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban because of her advocacy for education. She campaigns for universal access to education and passionately supports human rights, particularly the right of all children to receive an education. Her efforts were recognised when she received:
- Pakistan's first National Youth Peace Prize in 2012
- The Nobel Peace Prize in 2014
Muhammad Ali (1942-2016)
Real-World Example: Muhammad Ali's Principled Stand
Muhammad Ali was both a Muslim and a professional boxer. His refusal to fight in the Vietnam War cost him his professional boxing licence, demonstrating his commitment to his principles. He dedicated himself to charity work aimed at bringing peace and equality between different peoples. Ali also actively supported:
- Gender equality
- Racial equality
- Economic equality
- Religious tolerance
His actions demonstrated Muslim principles and teachings of peace in practice.
Islamic teachings supporting peace
From the Hadith
"None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself. (Hadith 13)"
This teaching emphasises the importance of treating others with the same kindness and consideration you would want for yourself, promoting understanding and harmony between people.
From the Qur'an
"And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend. (Surah 41:34)"
This verse teaches Muslims to respond to negativity and evil with good actions, showing how positive responses can transform enemies into friends.
"The servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace. (Surah 25:63)"
This passage encourages Muslims to respond to harsh treatment with peaceful words, emphasising the importance of maintaining composure and promoting peace even in difficult situations.
Another important verse states: "True righteousness is [in] one who believes in Allah ... and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveller, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives Zakah; ... and [those who] are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. (Surah 2:177)"
This teaches that true faith includes caring for those in need and being patient during difficulties, which supports peacemaking efforts.
These Quranic verses provide practical guidance for Muslims on how to respond to conflict and adversity, emphasising that peaceful responses and good deeds can transform relationships and situations.
Muslim charitable organisations working for peace
Islamic Relief
Islamic Relief is an organisation that works to help those affected by war in countries where it can be difficult to get aid to where it's most needed. The charity focuses on both immediate relief and long-term projects, helping to provide emergency assistance during conflicts and supporting communities in rebuilding after wars have ended. Their work demonstrates practical Muslim commitment to helping victims of conflict.
Red Crescent Movement
The Red Crescent Movement is another Muslim charity that provides assistance to victims of war and conflict. Like Islamic Relief, it works to help rebuild communities and provide essential support to those affected by violence and warfare.
These organisations demonstrate how Islamic principles are translated into concrete action, providing both humanitarian relief and long-term development support to communities affected by conflict.
Key Points to Remember:
- Muslims work for peace because of their religious teachings, which emphasise justice, forgiveness, and caring for others
- The Qur'an and Hadith provide clear guidance about responding to conflict with good deeds and peaceful words
- Individual Muslims like Malala Yousafzai and Muhammad Ali have demonstrated how Islamic principles can be applied to promote peace and equality
- Muslim charities such as Islamic Relief and the Red Crescent Movement put Islamic teachings into practice by helping victims of war and conflict
- The concept of ummah (global Muslim community) encourages Muslims to care for people worldwide and work towards peace